Licensed Behavioral Health Counselor (San Antonio Area)

SUMMARY:

The Licensed Behavioral Health Counselor will play a vital role in providing emotional support, guidance, and intervention to tribal citizens.  The Counselor will provide counseling to address the mental health needs of the Native American community, promote mental health awareness, and provide culturally sensitive mental health care that recognizes the individual needs and preferences of Native American clients, including cultural aspects of care.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Provide immediate support, intervention, and counseling services to individuals experiencing emotional or psychological crises.

• Provide individual, group, or family counseling to address mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and other disorders.
• Address co-occurring substance abuse issues and provide guidance on addiction treatment when necessary.

• Educate clients and their families about mental health conditions, treatment options, and strategies for maintaining mental well-being.

• Collaborate with family members, support networks, and other treatment providers to create a comprehensive support system for clients.

• Develop and implement treatment plans that may include referrals for additional services, such as inpatient care or specialized mental health programs.

• Coordinate with Behavioral Health Team to engage with the Native American community through outreach programs, educational events, and mental health awareness initiatives.
• Demonstrate cultural competence and sensitivity to the unique cultural values and traditions of the Native American community, and adapt treatment approaches accordingly.
• Advocate for patients’ mental health needs, helping them access the services and support they require.
• Ensure compliance with mental health regulations and ethical standards in patient care and record-keeping.
• Develop and maintain relationships with partner organizations.
• Agree to and comply with all company policies and procedures as outlined in the employee handbook, including how to handle patient grievances, proper intake procedures, staff meeting requirements, and general code of conduct
• Abide by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services’ (SAMHSA) and Accreditation Association of Ambulatory Healthcare (AAAHC) best practice indicators.
• Other duties as assigned

DESIRED SKILLS:

• Compassionate, patient, and empathetic demeanor.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and a compassionate nature.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• This position requires a self-starter who can work autonomously, demonstrating initiative and independence in addressing and managing situations effectively.
• Experience working with diverse populations.
• Strong desire to help others.
• Strong knowledge of therapeutic principles, practices, and techniques.
• Previous experience with the treatment of substance abuse disorders.
• Experience with co-occurring health and mental health problems.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Superior knowledge and practice of confidentiality and boundaries.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree in psychology, Counseling, Social Work, or a related field.
• Current and unexpired state licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or equivalent.
• Minimum of 2 years of clinical experience.

FLSA CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt

Due to the nature of the organization, Indian preference will be exercised in hiring and staff training practices.